Gradient Domain High Dynamic Range Compression

We present a new method for rendering high dynamic range images on conventional
displays. Our method is conceptually simple, computationally efficient,
robust, and easy to use. We manipulate the gradient field of the luminance
image by attenuating the magnitudes of large gradients. A new, low dynamic
range image is then obtained by solving a Poisson equation on the modified
gradient field. Our results demonstrate that the method is capable of
drastic dynamic range compression, while preserving fine details and avoiding
common artifacts, such as halos, gradient reversals, or loss of local
contrast. The method is also able to significantly enhance ordinary images
by bringing out detail in dark regions.